
Historically, Medicare Part D Plans have been required to include on their preferred drug lists all or substantially all psychiatric medications in recognition that personal choice and clinical judgment are critically important in decisions about these medications. The proposed rule would restrict the availability of anti-depressant medications in 2015 and restrict the availability of anti-psychotic medications in 2016.
NAMI has long supported preserving open access to all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medications in the Medicare Part D program. Restricting access to psychiatric medications can be extremely harmful for individuals living with serious mental illness, including increased hospitalizations and other negative consequences. At a time when national attention is focused on improving mental health care, a rule restricting access to psychiatric medications does not make sense.
Final comments on the proposed rule are due to CMS by March 7, 2014. NAMI will circulate sample comments prior to that date.
>> Go HERE to learn more about the proposed rule
>> Go HERE to see the proposed rule